OAKHURST – Companion planting, soil compositions, natural manures: these are just some of the subjects up for discussion during a free, informative presentation at the Oakhurst Library Community Room on Saturday, May 9 from 10:30 a.m. to noon.
Local grower Celia Allman of Highland Downs Farm will talk about timely and important topics for anyone interested in organic farming in the mountain communities.
Over the past seven years, Celia and her husband Brian have turned their 10-acre property into a local showplace, growing artichokes, grapes, berries, pears and persimmons, tomatoes, squash, cabbage, broccoli. They’ve also built a brooding pen where they raise chickens, ducks and turkeys. They supply eggs to retailers and local Farmers’ Markets, and their farm store is open to the public.
At the event, Celia will have handouts with lots of information for anyone interested in growing their own organic food and during the talk she’ll address some of the unique challenges of farming in the mountains. This includes bears, one of which visited Celia’s farm and feasted on her flock of laying hens. In addition, she will recommend prevention methods to use against other four-legged animals.
Topics Celia will cover include:
Companion Planting – growing a mix of plants that support health, flavor and soil quality
Controlling Bugs and Disease – without harsh chemicals and poisons
Soil Composition – maintain and increase soil substances
Natural Manures – natural materials that will decay in the soil and enhance plant health
Celia’s event will be held in the Community Room at the Oakhurst Library on May 9 from 10:30 to noon. Questions? Call the Library at 559-683-4838 or visit Friends of Oakhurst Branch Library.
Photograph courtesy of Highland Downs.
